Tilly Norwood’s AI debut shakes Hollywood, sparking debate on acting, critics say ‘Tilly is already looking outdated’

The entertainment industry was thrown into uncharted waters in late 2025 with the arrival of Tilly Norwood, an AI-powered actress created by Dutch innovator Eline Van der Velden. Unlike typical celebrity launches, Norwood's debut immediately sparked debate, with questions swirling about whether artificial intelligence could ever challenge the role of human actors-and what this means for their livelihoods.

Tilly Norwood: Stunning AI creation making waves in entertainment

Van der Velden, CEO of the tech company Xicoia, sought to calm fears from the outset. "Tilly isn't here to replace actors," she told AP News. "She's an experiment in creativity, a way to explore what's possible when technology and performance intersect." Yet, despite her as surances, the response was swift and divisive. Talent agencies publicly refused to represent Norwood, while social media erupted with discussions ranging from fascination to concern about the ethics and implications of AI performers.

Why Norwood's AI debut sparks both innovation and industry anxiety

Van der Velden is clear that Norwood will not be competing for traditional film or television roles. Instead, she is being positioned within a new "creative genre," where AI can collaborate with humans rather than take their place. Xicoia is recruiting industry professionals-comedy writers, production coordinators, and more-to help guide the project. "We want people with real experience to shape this new form of artistry," Van der Velden explained. By blending human expertise with AI innovation, the project aims to expand storytelling possibilities without threatening existing jobs.

The launch of Van der Velden's AI creation prompted immediate reactions, wi th people across social media and industry circles debating its potential impact on traditional acting and the broader implications for the future of entertainment.

AI actress Tilly Norwood dazzles with lifelike beauty and charm

One X user publicly responded: "You can't "work with" this AI actress. Every time you generate a video, the timings and inflections change."

Another X user reacted saying: "She can barely form a sentence about her ham-handed AI prompt creation but she wants to call herself and artist."